Vacuum Interrupter Elastic Return Mechanism Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medium voltage vacuum interrupters require precise kinematic connections and tight dimensional tolerances for the vacuum interrupter and main switch, limiting flexibility in positioning and increasing the complexity of the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum interrupter system with a movable electrode and an elastic return mechanism, where the opening is facilitated by an elastic return means, allowing the vacuum interrupter to transition from a closed to an open position without relying solely on the main switch's opening stroke, enabling easier positioning and reduced precision requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the vacuum interrupter is opened only by the main switch during the opening stroke, then the current interruption function is achieved, but the positioning flexibility and manufacturing precision requirements are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The opening mechanism is segmented into two independent parts: the main switch that provides opening impulse, and the elastic return means that provides the actual opening force. This segmentation allows the vacuum interrupter to be positioned more flexibly while reducing precision requirements on the kinematic connection between the main switch and vacuum interrupter.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic return means acts as an intermediary mechanism between the main switch and the movable electrode. It stores energy during closing and releases it during opening, mediating the force transmission and reducing the precision requirements on direct kinematic connections.
2Volume of moving object
If the vacuum interrupter is arranged in a parallel branch with the main switch, then the vacuum interrupter size is reduced, but the kinematic connection precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic return means enables the vacuum interrupter to open itself using stored elastic energy, without requiring precise external actuation. This self-service mechanism reduces the precision requirements on kinematic connections while maintaining the compact parallel branch arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic return means is pre-loaded during the closing operation, storing energy that will be released during opening. This preliminary action allows the vacuum interrupter to achieve opening with less precision requirement on the actuating mechanism.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the holding member precisely immobilizes the elastic return means, then the closed position stability is improved, but the energy required to release it increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member uses geometric constraint and mechanical advantage rather than high-force fastening to maintain the closed position. The elastic return means is held by the natural geometry of the mechanism rather than by high-energy fastening, reducing the energy required for release.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for more flexible positioning of the vacuum interrupter and reduces the energy and precision needed for opening, enhancing the repeatability and ease of development of the cutting system while maintaining effective current interruption.
Implementation Method 1
a means 6 for holding the elastic return means 6 in position, the holding member being configured to pass: -- from a first configuration called the holding configuration, in which the elastic return means is immobilized, to -- a second configuration called the moving configuration, in which the elastic return means is released
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A switching system (50) for an electrical device (1) is proposed, comprising: - A vacuum bulb (2) having: -- A fixed electrode (4), -- A movable electrode (5), configured to move between: --- a closed position (P1), --- an open position (P2), - An elastic return means (6) configured to apply a driving force on the movable electrode (5), - A retaining member (7) for the elastic return means (6), configured to move: -- from a retaining configuration (P1'), in which the elastic return means (6) is immobilized, to -- a moving configuration (P2'), in which the elastic return means (6) is released, the switching system being configured so that the movable electrode (5) moves from the closed position (P1) to the open position (P2) under the action of the elastic return means (6) when the retaining member (7) leaves its retaining configuration (P1').